Net zero action needed now
Four key policies to make net zero possible by, or before, 2050
In this slide pack, we look at how the UK can make rapid progress towards net zero by acting now. We show that doing so is both readily achievable and desirable. We show that the government can pledge to end climate change within a generation, and set this goal into law. In doing so, it should act to cut emissions now, and continue to support innovation to enable longer term emissions reductions.
Our assessment is that getting on track to net zero by 2050 could be done via four straightforward policies. Aiming for net zero by 2045 would be harder and waiting until after 2032 to act would be a mistake.
How the UK can stop contributing to climate change
Read our press release
By popular demand: what people want from a resource efficient economy
To make a successful transition to a low carbon, resource efficient economy, businesses and governments need to understand what people value and want from the products and services they use.
Our new report presents findings from research carried out by the Centre for Industrial Energy, Materials and Products (CIEMAP) on public attitudes towards policies intended to improve resource efficiency. Significantly, the research shows that measures offering the biggest carbon savings, and over which the government has most control, are those that are most popular with the public.
By popular demand: what people want from a resource efficient economy
Read our press release
here.
Better spending to clean up our waterways
Eighty four per cent of our waters do not meet good status. Farm subsidies have been supporting agriculture that pollutes waterways and water companies have to pay to clean them up.
We propose a new approach, aligning water company environmental spending with the new 'public money for public goods' farm support system.
Read our policy insight:
From blue to green: how to get the best for the environment from spending on water
Recycling targets aren't enough
UK policies mean valuable resources are still wasted after collection
UK waste strategy relies on recycling targets to drive action. But, once collected, materials are often lost to the economy instead of providing a valuable stream of secondary raw material which could used by industry.
Our new report describes the scale of the problem and the opportunities for plastic, steel and critical raw materials. We outline the measures that would 'pull' these materials back into use by manufacturing.
Completing the circle: creating effective UK markets for recovered resources
Our annual report 2017-18
A year of intense activity and opportunity within a challenging political climate
This year's report charts a year of intense activity, with a number of considerable successes. Highlights include our work with the Greener UK coalition in ensuring the environment is made central to the Brexit debate and influencing the government's ambitious to pursue clean growth. Our line that growth must be low carbon and resource efficient formed a key part of the new industrial strategy.
The current context for our work on environmental politics and policy is certainly challenging but we remain, as ever, positive and energetic. Despite the uncertainties, this period of change is offering unprecedented new opportunities to transform the way we protect and enhance our environment in the future.
Annual report 2017-18
Our Charity Commission profile
